Launch Your Career as a Health Technician with the VA
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated and compassionate Health Technician to join the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System in Cottonwood, Arizona. This role is essential to our mission of providing high-quality care to the heroes who served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician, you will be the backbone of the primary care service line. Your duties will be varied and impactful, including:
- Clinical Support: Performing phlebotomy, collecting lab specimens, and setting up diagnostic equipment.
- Administrative Coordination: Managing patient appointments, maintaining electronic medical records, and ensuring clinical staff are updated on patient status.
- Patient Care: Providing basic personal patient care and educating patients and families on health practices.
- Communication: Serving as a primary point of contact for Veterans and their families, ensuring they receive prompt and respectful service.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level OR a bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours of relevant coursework.
- Pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Comply with the annual influenza vaccination requirement.
- Undergo a background security investigation.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree (24+ related credits) |
| Experience | 1 Year of GS-4 equivalent clinical work |
| Language | Proficient in written/spoken English |
| Security | Background investigation required |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $40,736 to $52,957 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a stable federal position with clear pay structures.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous federal retirement pension and matching 401(k)-style contributions.
- Structured career progression and training opportunities.
- Paid time off (annual and sick leave) and federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Respect the page limit: Resumes must be two pages or less.
- Be specific: When listing experience, include start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Use the Builder: The USAJOBS resume builder helps ensure your document meets all requirements.
- Proofread: Ensure your skills section clearly aligns with the job announcement competencies.
If you have the technical skills and the desire to support our nation’s Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This role offers not just a paycheck, but a chance to be part of a meaningful cause. Submit your application today via the official USAJOBS portal.
Why This Health Technician Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country. Join the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System as a Health Technician in Cottonwood and provide vital clinical and administrative support to our nation's Veterans.
Health Technician Job Overview
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Health Technician to join their primary care team in Cottonwood, Arizona. In this role, you will serve as a cornerstone of patient care, providing essential clinical support—including phlebotomy and diagnostic procedures—while ensuring administrative efficiency. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization while working in a supportive, collaborative environment dedicated to the health and wellness of our Veterans.
Requirements for Health Technician
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
- Must be able to complete an online, competency-based assessment.
- Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
- Must comply with mandatory annual influenza vaccination requirements.
- Possess specialized experience equivalent to GS-4 level or a bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours of related study.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician
- One year of professional experience in primary care laboratory procedures.
- Demonstrated expertise in phlebotomy collection and processing.
- Strong interpersonal skills and experience working in a high-volume clinical setting.
- Proven ability to document medical records accurately and maintain patient records.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Competitive paid leave, including annual and sick time.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the VA system.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance culture.
💡 How to Apply Health Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages, results-focused).
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, SF-50 forms, or certifications.
- Submit your application and complete the required online questionnaire.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment if notified via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month and year start/end dates for all positions.
- Specify the average hours worked per week for all previous roles.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page count.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.
- Be concise—avoid fluff and focus on how your experience meets the specific requirements listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 30-day hiring model mean for me?
It means the VA has streamlined its processes to provide you with a faster, more transparent hiring experience, including quicker interviews and faster pre-employment screening.
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this position is not suitable for telework and requires on-site presence in Cottonwood, Arizona.
Is phlebotomy experience required?
While specialized experience in a medical/healthcare environment is required, experience in phlebotomy is listed as a preferred qualification rather than a mandatory one.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Cottonwood, Arizona.
How long is the probationary period?
You will serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate your performance and conduct.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System is part of the VA Desert Pacific Healthcare Network. We are committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. When you join the VA, you are joining a mission-driven team dedicated to the "Whole Health" of our Veterans, their families, and their caregivers.
